Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to blur background on iPhone using built-in features like Portrait Mode and Focus.

• Discover third-party apps that enhance background blur.

• Understand how to edit and adjust blur after capturing photos.

• Get tips for achieving professional-level bokeh effects on any iPhone model.

• Boost your photography game with simple tricks for better depth and focus.

Blurring the background on iPhone photos is a powerful way to make your subject stand out and add a professional touch to your images. Whether you’re capturing portraits, products, or creative compositions, the blur background iPhone feature makes all the difference in creating that cinematic, DSLR-like effect.

What Does Background Blur Do?

Background blur, also known as “bokeh” in photography terms, is the aesthetic quality of the out-of-focus parts of an image. The blur background iPhone feature separates the subject from the background, adding depth and focus. This makes the subject pop while softening distractions in the background.

Apple introduced background blur with the iPhone 7 Plus, and it’s become more advanced with each generation. From dual-lens setups to LiDAR scanners and computational photography, the iPhone makes background blur accessible even for beginners.

Using Portrait Mode to Blur Background on iPhone

Portrait Mode is the most straightforward way to blur background on iPhone. It uses depth mapping to distinguish between subject and background, applying a soft blur behind the focus point.

How to use Portrait Mode:

1. Open the Camera app.

2. Swipe to “Portrait”.

3. Frame your subject (usually works best with people, pets, or objects within 2–8 feet).

4. Look for the depth effect box to turn yellow—it means the iPhone detects the subject.

5. Tap the shutter to take the photo.

Depending on your iPhone model, you can choose different lighting effects like Natural Light, Studio Light, or Stage Light, which also enhance the subject against the blurred background.

Supported iPhones for Background Blur

Not all iPhones support Portrait Mode or depth control. Here’s a quick look at iPhones that support background blur:

• iPhone 7 Plus, 8 Plus – Rear camera Portrait Mode.

• iPhone X, XR, XS, XS Max – Rear Portrait, and front on some models.

• iPhone 11 and later – Rear and front Portrait Mode, improved depth and lighting.

• iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd Gen) – Portrait Mode with single lens using software.

• iPhone 12 Pro, 13 Pro, 14 Pro, 15 Pro – Advanced Portrait Mode, ProRAW, and LiDAR-based blur.

Even budget iPhones now include software-driven background blur, making the blur background iPhone capability more universal than ever.

Adjusting Background Blur After Taking a Photo

One of the best features on newer iPhones is the ability to adjust the background blur after the shot is taken.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Open a Portrait photo in the Photos app.

2. Tap “Edit”.

3. Use the Depth Control slider (f-stop icon) to adjust the blur. Lower values (f/1.4) mean more blur; higher values (f/16) mean less blur.

4. Tap “Done” to save.

This feature gives you creative control post-shoot and allows fine-tuning of the blur to suit different styles and compositions.

Blurring Background in Videos with Cinematic Mode

Apple took background blur to the next level with Cinematic Mode, starting with the iPhone 13 lineup. This mode blurs the background in videos and even allows changing the focus point while recording—or after.

How to use Cinematic Mode:

1. Open the Camera app.

2. Swipe to “Cinematic”.

3. Tap your subject to focus.

4. Record as usual.

5. In the Photos app, edit the video and shift the focus point or adjust the blur strength.

This is a game-changer for content creators who want DSLR-like storytelling capabilities using only their iPhone.

How to Blur Background on iPhone Without Portrait Mode

If your iPhone doesn’t support Portrait Mode or you want to blur background on other types of images, there are still options:

1. Use Third-Party Apps

Apps like Focos, Snapseed, AfterFocus, and Lightroom Mobile allow manual or AI-powered blur effects.

Focos is a standout choice. It simulates DSLR-style blur and even adds adjustable aperture, lens style, and focus points.

Steps in Focos:

1. Import your photo.

2. Tap on the focus area.

3. Adjust the aperture (blur strength).

4. Export your edited photo.

2. Use Editing Tools in Photos

While not as powerful as dedicated apps, the iPhone’s native editing features can slightly reduce distractions and simulate blur using vignette or lighting adjustments.

3. Take Advantage of Distance and Zoom

You can create natural blur by increasing the distance between your subject and the background. Use the telephoto lens or zoom in to compress depth, which often blurs distant backgrounds naturally, even in regular Photo mode.

Pro Tips for Better Blur Background iPhone Shots

To get the most out of blur effects on your iPhone, keep these tips in mind:

• Use natural light: Soft light enhances the depth effect without harsh shadows.

• Avoid busy backgrounds: Simple backgrounds blur better and keep focus on your subject.

• Use a plain outfit or object: Solid colors pop more against blurred backdrops.

• Stay within optimal distance: iPhones detect depth best between 2 to 8 feet.

• Keep your lens clean: A dirty lens can interfere with subject detection and blurring.

Blurring Background in Selfies on iPhone

Yes, you can blur the background on selfies too! Front-facing Portrait Mode is available on:

• iPhone X and later (except SE 2nd Gen)

• iPhone 11 and newer models offer even better edge detection and lighting control.

To do this:

1. Switch to the front camera.

2. Enable Portrait Mode.

3. Tap to focus and adjust lighting.

4. Take the selfie and adjust blur afterward if desired.

This is great for social media, video calls, or professional profile pictures.

Creative Uses of Background Blur on iPhone

The blur background iPhone feature isn’t just for portraits. You can get creative with these ideas:

• Product photography: Highlight items for Etsy or Instagram stores.

• Food photography: Focus on the meal and soften the kitchen clutter.

• Street photography: Make urban scenes look cinematic.

• Pet photography: Isolate your furry friend from the chaos around.

Can You Blur Background in Real-Time on iPhone?

Yes. Both Portrait Mode (for photos) and Cinematic Mode (for video) apply blur in real-time. This means you can preview how your final image or video will look, adjust the composition, and get better results before you shoot.

Some apps like Focos Live also offer real-time background blur for video even if your iPhone doesn’t support Cinematic Mode.

Final Thoughts: Mastering the Blur Background iPhone Feature

Whether you’re a casual snapper or a mobile photography enthusiast, knowing how to blur background on iPhone can elevate your visuals significantly. From built-in Portrait Mode to editing apps and creative techniques, the blur background iPhone functionality opens a world of photo possibilities.

Make sure to explore your iPhone’s capabilities, experiment with distances and lighting, and don’t be afraid to use third-party tools for extra polish. With just a little effort, you can turn everyday photos into studio-quality shots—right from your pocket.

So the next time you want to impress on Instagram, capture a beautiful moment, or shoot a cinematic video, remember to harness the power of the blur background iPhone feature. It’s your secret weapon for stunning visuals.